Four detainees recently escaped from the Delaney Hall detention center in Newark, New Jersey, under ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) custody. The Department of Homeland Security(DHS) confirmed the escape, although it has not yet released the identities of the fugitives or the agencies involved in the search for them.
The incident comes amid growing tensions inside and outside the center, which has generated great concern among migrant communities and human rights advocates.
What caused the leak?
The events occurred after an apparent disturbance inside the center, according to witnesses and lawyers.
Some detainees were frustrated by the quality and delay in the delivery of meals – breakfasts at 6 a.m., dinners after 10 p.m., no lunch – which led to confrontations.
A legal source indicated that the detainees knocked down a weak outer perimeter wall.
On Thursday night, protesters gathered in front of the center.
Videos show pushing against fences and confrontations with security agents.
Some activists reported the use of pepper spray and scuffles by the authorities.
Political climate and lack of information
Delaney Hall, a 1,000-seat facility, was opened as part of a 15-year, multimillion-dollar contract during the Donald Trump administration.
Since its opening, it has been the focus of conflicts between federal authorities and local Democratic officials, who demand greater supervision and more humane conditions for detainees.
Newark Mayor Ras Baraka expressed concern about the chaos inside the center.
It's time to put an end to this unchecked operation. We cannot tolerate more abuse or misinformation
The situation is even more tense considering that many calls from lawyers were cancelled, and legal access to the center was restricted the day after the escape.
The American Friends Service Committee, which represents several migrants, denounced these irregularities and warned about the food and treatment conditions at Delaney Hall.
Immigration context in 2025
Buzzy
At the end of May, ICE was holding more than 53,000 people in custody throughout the U.S.
A figure higher than its budgeted capacity of 41,000.
This overcrowding, coupled with more aggressive federal policies, such as the 3,000 arrests per day goal suggested by Trump advisors, has exacerbated tensions.
New Jersey has been at the epicenter of the “sanctuary” policy debate.
While such policies do not block cooperation in criminal matters, they do limit local collaboration with ICE in civil cases, which has caused friction with the federal administration.
What do Hispanics need to know?
Conditions inside detention centers can pose risks to the health, safety and civil rights of immigrants.
If you have family members in detention, it is crucial to maintain legal contact and be aware of any changes in access or conditions.
Several organizations in New Jersey and nationwide offer free or low-cost legal support to detained migrants.
For more information, visit QuéOnnda.com.
